Jimmy Kimmel made a notable return to the Disney/ABC upfront stage, opening with a quip about his unexpected comeback: "I didn’t think I’d see you guys again either!"
Reflecting on a Tumultuous Year
Kimmel acknowledged the challenges of the past year, during which he was temporarily removed from air by Disney amid tensions with the Trump administration. "I’ve been through so much bullshit this year, it actually made me appreciate this bullshit," he said, alluding to the controversy that ensued.
Addressing his clashes with the White House, Kimmel remarked, "Yes, the President has tried to get me twice over the last six months." He humorously noted the engagement this generated across media, quipping, "Largely thanks to our partners in Washington, we are up 25%."
Jabs at Disney and Network Competitors
Kimmel took aim at ABC and Disney, joking about the network's leadership changes and the upcoming Super Bowl broadcast. "Since I started ABC, I’ve had three CEOs: Bob, Bob, Bob and Josh," he said, playfully mispronouncing Josh D’Amaro's name.
Regarding the Super Bowl, Kimmel noted, "This will be the first Super Bowl on ABC in 20 years, and we are going to milk the bejesus out of it." The event is set for Valentine’s Day, which Kimmel joked would further divide the nation.
He also teased network rivals CBS and NBC. CBS's lineup, including "NCIS: New York" and "Einstein," drew sarcastic praise, while NBC's success with events like the Olympics was met with skepticism about sustainable bragging rights.
Fox and ABC’s Programming Under the Lens
Fox was not spared from Kimmel's humor. He mocked their remake of "Baywatch," suggesting it was aimed at audiences seeking "fresh stories they can masturbate to."
Kimmel also poked fun at ABC's own programming, referencing "Dancing with the Stars" and "The Rookie," while highlighting the inexplicable trends in youth viewing habits.
Concluding with Family and Criticism
Kimmel wrapped up with good-natured jibes about the advertising industry before introducing his daughter Jane to present a musical performance by Olivia Rodrigo.
Despite the light-hearted tone, Kimmel remains under scrutiny from the Trump administration, with FCC chairman Brendan Carr initiating a review of Disney’s broadcast licenses, purportedly over DEI practices. This move has faced criticism from both sides of the political aisle.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/tv/news/jimmy-kimmel-best-jokes-disney-abc-upfront-2026-1236746401/
